Sophia Nelson speaks on redefining women

Wednesday evening, author and political strategist Sophia Nelson spoke on the evolving nature of womanhood and being a woman of color for Women's History Month. The event was co-sponsored by Women's History Month Committee and the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA).

Irene Ferguson, a co-chair of Women's History Month, introduced Nelson as "one of a handful of African-American opinion writers." Nelson has been featured in political media outlets such as CNN, Washington Post and NPR.

Sarah Sanchez, Program Coordinator at OMA, spoke about Nelson's inclusion in the month-long events focusing on women's education and empowerment. "That's something about being a woman that hasn't been appreciated in the past," Sanchez said. Nelson's book Black Woman Redefined: Dispelling Myths and Discovering Fulfillment in the Age of Michelle Obama was published in 2011.

The book is based on what Nelson has dubbed "the age of Michelle Obama." She believes that Obama's actions have allowed her to become a role model for all women, though especially young African-American women. And in a generation plagued by the likes of the Kardashians, Obama's presence is especially important. As a political opinions writer, she noted, "I know I'm supposed to be unbiased, but I'll never write a bad word about her."

Nelson encouraged attendees to take notes and participate in the conversation, creating a dialogue and noting the differences in perspective between generations and gender.

Nelson focused on the generational differences by speaking about her generation, Generation X and the college-aged Generation Next. "For you, you don't see racism anymore. You don't see sexism anymore. But the numbers point to a different reality."

She stressed that the younger generations, though they might have notions of equality, are still not achieving what they deserve. And women who do become successful are not without judgment. She cited Hillary Clinton who, in a poll, was voted "Angriest Black Woman."

"Just because she had an opinion, just because she wanted to express her views, she's a 'b word,'" Nelson said. "You gotta change the game. The rules of the game were not designed for you to win."

She explained that all individuals are subject to stereotype, regardless of race or gender, and that redefining these stereotypes will help to move Generation Next into a better position. "When you're at your age, you are defining your life. You can't redefine something unless it's been defined," she said. Her talk revolved around guiding advice such as knowing one's value and following one's passion. Education and one's life partner are the most important decisions a person can make in life.

Though she encouraged following one's passion, she cautioned students to choose a major that "makes sense" in the global world and economy.

Charlene Hayes, Vice President of Human Resources at Hopkins, disagreed. "It's not all about a job. It's not about what you study. It's about what you do with what you learn," Hayes said.

Junior Teno Boone, president of the Black Student Union felt Nelson's speech was important for Hopkins. "We're always talking about the next latest biomedical development or maybe some politician. . .and this is about life."